Time outs

Communication between crew members is again the key to getting the job done in a smooth and professional manner. When a player or head coach properly requests a time out from an official, that official needs to signal the clock to stop and properly relay the request to the Referee. The covering official should also take a quick glimpse at the time left on the clock and make sure it has stopped.

The transfer of information from the covering official to the R is best done through a quick, verbal communication — though some prefer discrete signals. The Ref should then repeat the information to the reporting official to ensure accuracy. Once the R has the correct information, he needs to relay that to the press box through the accepted, official signals.

The wing officials should tell the head coaches on their respective sidelines that time has been called and by whom. Each wing should also remind the sideline that water can be sent out to the players at this time.

Continued...